Objective 5a AMD

Question 1

What is Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

Answer 1

Vision loss usually in central vision
Usually in the elderly
Usually affects both eyes but at different rates.
Color and pheripheral visison may remain clear

Question 2

The most cases are “Dry” or Non-Exudative Macular Degeneration that progresses very slowly. What is happening?

Answer 2

There is a deterioration of the tissue of the macular area of the retina or the formation of abnormal deposits called drusen.

Question 3

Symptoms of Dry Macular Degeneration?

Answer 3

Early MD of either type may cause little if any noticeable change in vision.
Difficulty reading without extra light and magnification.
Blind spots in centre of vision
Inability to see details, distorted or blurring of objects in color, size or shape. Difficulty seeing to read or drive.

Question 4

Causes of Macular degeneration are unknown, it is known that women are at a slightly higher risk and Caucasians are more likely, what are other factors?

Answer 4

Over 65, heredity maybe, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking and long-term unprotected exposure to UV light

Question 5

Does either type of Macular Degeneration cause pain?

Answer 5

NO

Question 6

What is “Wet” Macular Degeneration?

Answer 6

Abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula. They are fragile and often leak blood and fluid, which raises the macula from its normal place causing damage to the macula. This can happen very quickly and loose of central vision happens rapidly.

Question 7

What is Central Serous Chorioretinopathy?

Answer 7

Accumulation of serous fluid in the sensory retina causing Central Serous.

Question 8

Who does Central Serous Chorioretinopathy primarily afflict and when?

Answer 8

Young to middle-aged males in their thirties and forties. Usually under stress at the time of the appearance.

Question 9

What are the symptoms?

Answer 9

Sudden onset of blurred vision, although acuity may not be more than moderately decreased

Question 10

How is CSC handled?

Answer 10

The natural course of this disease varies, and usually the fluid is reabsorbed by the retina. This may take as long as 6 months after the onset. Most Ophthalmologist do not treat it although sometimes laser treatment can be done.